Let the Sunshine In!

After a long, cold winter, it’s nice to see the sun’s rays beaming through the windows. Most often, along with the sun, comes more energy and motivation. Why not take that energy and start getting rid of the “stuff” you had laying around cluttering areas in your home through the winter and do some general spring cleaning?

The National Association of Professional Organizers in Michigan (NAPO-MI) wants to share some tips on organizing this spring.

1. Set a timer for 15 or 30 minutes and see how much you get done in that time. Remember, make sure you don’t take any phone calls or watch TV during this decluttering or cleaning time.

2. Start sorting and make decisions about what it is time to part with and donate. For example, if you are going to redecorate a room, is it time to replace the old furniture? Some charities offer free pick-up services for items you wish to donate.

3. Straighten supplies. If you spent the winter scrap booking, painting, or doing other indoor crafts, it is time to get organized. Put brushes and other long, slim objects in clear jars. Perhaps set up a pegboard and hang craft items/tools on it.

4. Start collecting egg cartons for those plants you want to start growing indoors. Then when the outside planting season begins, you will have your own starter plants.

5. Read up on natural cleansers and cleaners. Baking soda and white vinegar are often great staples.

6. Too many Projects to do? Make a list of what you want to accomplish and prioritize them. Then break them down into manageable steps.

“If household maintenance and cleaning are done regularly throughout the year, when spring comes, it’s not necessary to declutter or clean the whole house in a short time. This way, time can be spent preparing the home for summer by cleaning the deck, setting up patio furniture, prepping the flower beds, cleaning the windows and putting in the screens”, said Chapter member Stacy Rafalko CPO-CD®.
Getting your home ready for the spring is easier than you think! For more organizing tips, visit www.NapoMichigan.com.

Article submitted by Chapter member Theresa Brune.